A temporary restraining order (TRO) is a court order requiring the parties to whom it is addressed not to engage in certain activity, or to continue to engage in certain activity, and is usually designed to maintain the current state of things (the status quo) until the court has the opportunity to hear a more complete presentation of the evidence—usually during an application for a temporary injunction that will remain in place while the lawsuit is pending.

In Arizona, a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is a legal measure used to prevent immediate harm or to maintain the status quo before a more comprehensive hearing can take place. It is often used in situations involving domestic violence, harassment, or other urgent circumstances where immediate action is necessary to protect an individual or preserve property. To obtain a TRO, an individual must file a petition with the court, and the judge must believe that there is a substantial likelihood of immediate danger or irreparable harm without the order. The TRO is typically granted without the presence of the party against whom the order is sought (ex parte) and is effective for a short period, usually until the court can hold a hearing for a preliminary injunction, which may last for the duration of the lawsuit if granted. Arizona law requires that the TRO specify the reasons for its issuance and provide a date for the hearing on the preliminary injunction, typically within 15 days. The party against whom the TRO is issued has the right to contest the order at the subsequent hearing.